Enzyme Facial Benefits: What is an Enzyme Facial Peel and Why it's Good for All Skin Types

An enzyme facial benefits all skin types. Unlike some cosmetic facial treatments or chemical peels, an enzyme facial does not contain harsh chemicals and is generally safe for all people (like pregnant women).

And is well tolerated for all skin conditions including dry, oily, aging, and even acne-prone skin.

Woman using a peel to reap the enzyme facial benefits for smoother skin.

Enzyme Facial Mask

What is an enzyme facial Peel

Basically, an enzyme facial is a face mask or a peel containing a natural enzyme exfoliant derived from vegetables and fruits.

When applied to the skin, the chemical reactions from the vegetable and fruit enzymes (called proteolytic enzymes) help break down dead skin cells (keratin protein) found on the surface of the skin.

This exfoliation process imparts a youthful glow. And, the best part? You'll see immediate results!

(10) Enzyme Facial Benefits

Aside from containing potent antioxidants and nourishing the skin, the active ingredients in an enzyme peel offer so many more benefits. Here is why you should include them in your regular skincare routine:

1. Dull Skin

Nothing ages your skin, like a dry, dull, or rough skin texture. Most people see a natural glow and smoother skin after just one enzyme facial. And results get better with continued use.

2. Fine Lines

Speaking of smoother skin, exfoliating dead skin cells is an effective method for reducing the appearance of fine lines. Dead skin cells settle in the top layer of your skin exaggerating the appearance of fine lines and faint wrinkles.

3. Encourages Healthy Skin Cell Turnover

The gentle exfoliation action of an enzyme peel eliminates dead skin cells, replacing them with new, younger, healthier cells.

4. Sun Damage

Enzyme facials may not reverse the signs of sun damage, but they are loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radical damage. This helps reduce oxidative stress which leads to premature aging such as dark spots and wrinkles.

5. Skin Tone

The powerful effects of natural enzymes can improvement skin tone and texture over long term use.

6. Improved Pores

Dead protein cells settle deep into pores which can lead to blackheads. The proteolytic enzymes in a peel can help clear congested pores and improve the texture of your skin.

7. Inexpensive

The cost of a professional enzyme peel can range between $100 to $200. In addition, there are many at-home facial peels, which are a great alternative for under $50.

8. Youthful Skin

In general, most people feel their skin looks younger due to better texture, tone, smoother skin, brighter complexion, cleaner pores, and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

9. Sensitive Skin

If your skin is very sensitive or you cannot tolerate salicylic acid, glycolic acid or lactic acid (found in most chemical peels), then the benefits of an enzyme facial peel is a great option.

10. Compatible with Other Skincare Products and Treatments

Regardless of what other skincare products/medication you're using (like Retin-A a form of Tretinoin), an enzyme facial is usually compatible with most of them.

However, it's best to use them at different times of the day.

Also, make sure to check with your dermatologist before using any facial or peel if your currently on skincare medication.

How to Prepare for Enzyme Facial

There is not much you need to do before your facial, but to make sure your skin is clean and free from makeup. If you're sensitive, it might be a good idea not to tan a few days before using the facial.

Some products contain enzymes from pineapple or apply cider vinegar, and this might cause some discomfort and redness. So it's best to avoid anything that could cause the skin to be extra sensitive.

Enzyme Facial Side Effects

Enzyme facials are pretty safe and most people tolerate them well. But, those with extremely sensitive skin should test a small amount first to see how their skin will react.

The most common side effect is redness and sometimes stinging, which usually goes away in an hour or two.

Enzyme facial products

How do you know which enzyme facial products to try? Well, you can choose depending on your skin type.

Even though these facials contain natural enzymes, the key ingredients in some could irritate sensitive skin depending on their source.

For example, papaya enzymes contain papain, which has skin soothing skin and anti-inflammatory properties. So if you have skin issues like rosacea or acne, this might be a better choice for you.

On the other hand, pineapple enzymes are stronger. Ever notice how funny your lips and tongue feel after eating pineapple?

That's due to the powerful bromelain enzyme. This enzyme facial might be better for those with oily skin, congested pores or blackheads as it can assist in deep pore cleansing and softening of the sebum.

You can also try a medium clay-based enzyme mask, to which you can add your own liquid depending on how weak or strong you want.

For example, in this Botanical Masque that I use, the following liquids can be used depending on your skin needs.

yogurt
milk, soy milk, or goats milk for oilier skin
organic apple cider vinegar
orange juice

I use organic apple cider vinegar, but I must say, it will sting a bit at first. So use less vinegar in the beginning, or just avoid it if your skin is sensitive.

Enzyme Facial: Benefits are great, but limited

Multiple enzyme facials over time can improve the appearance of your skin. However, if you have moderate to severe signs of aging, don't expect dramatic results.

Deep chemical peels using alpha or beta hydroxy acids or a (if you're willing to spend some money) a BBL facial will provide better results in this case. Especially if you have deep brown spots, redness from rosacea or broken blood vessels.

Enzyme Facial Benefits: FAQ's

An enzyme facial offers dual benefits of enzyme chemicals as well as strategic hand movements and stimulation of pressure points on your face. All these results in increased blood circulation in the face area

Q: What is an enzyme therapy facial?

A: An enzyme facial therapy is usually done at a spa by a skincare professional. It includes a deep cleansing treatment, followed by a potent enzyme mask application, along with an intense facial massage and manipulation of facial muscles to stimulate pressure points of the face.

Q: What is a DMK Enzyme Therapy Facial?

A: DMK Enzyme Therapy is a professional skin care treatment that uses a special blend of enzymes and minerals to deeply cleanse the skin. The treatment is designed to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten the complexion.

Some DMK Enzyme masks tighten up as it dries. This tightening action flushes out toxins, removes impurities, increases circulation, and simulate the lymphatic system. The at-home botanical enzyme mask I use by Carolyn's Facial Fitness tightens up quite a bit too. And after it's rinsed off, my face has a bright pink glow and my skin tingles from the increased circulation.

Q: How much does an DMK Enzyme Facial Cost?

A: Depending on your location, the cost of an DMK facial can run between $100-300 per session.

Q: What's the difference between a chemical peel and an enzyme peel?

A: Both peels are meant to exfoliate the top layer of the skin, remove impurities, refresh the skin, and brighten and soften the complexion. However, enzyme peels are much more gentle (compared to a chemical peel) because they are derived from natural sources such as fruits and vegetables.

Q: What should I expect after an enzyme peel?

A: After a home enzyme peel your skin may be slightly flushed, plump and super soft. Pores may smaller and skin will feel firmer. Depending on what type of enzymes are in your facial peel, your skin might feel slightly dry. In that case, make sure to moisturize well.

Q: How often should you do an enzyme facial peel?

A: That depends on what type of facial peel you're using. A home enzyme facial (one you make using your own kitchen ingredients like yogurt) can be done a few times a week.

For store bought enzyme facial peels and masks, follow the directions on the label. I use my Botanical Masque (to which I add apple cider vinegar) once a week because the acidity of the vinegar makes it more potent. But if I mixed it with water, you could potentially use several times a week.

Q: Do enzyme facial peels hurt?

A: No, a home or store bought enzyme peel should not hurt. But, if you use a stronger type of enzyme like those found in pineapple, you might feel a tingling sensation. If your enzyme facial hurts, then rinse off immediately.

One of the benefits of an enzyme facial peel is that they're gentle because the ingredients are derived from natural fruits and veggies.

However, if you're asking about a professional enzyme chemical peel, your doctor may suggest you avoid makeup and sunlight for about a week after. Always check with your doctor for further aftercare instructions.

Questions/Comments or Just Wanna Chat?

Visit the Anti-Aging Beauty Blog or contact me here.

Check us out at these locations:

"With product tested reviews, step-by-step tutorials, videos, and before and after pictures, my goal is to give you the confidence to look your best at any age."